The development of Kenya’s National Marine Spatial Plan has gained momentum following the completion of stakeholder consultations across the coastal region.
The national secretariat collected views from communities in Mombasa, Kilifi, Kwale, Lamu and Tana River counties to inform the preparation of the plan, which aims to guide sustainable use of the country’s vast marine resources.
National coordinator for the Marine Spatial Plan, Dr Jackline Uku, said the MSP outlines strategies for utilising oceanic resources such as fisheries, oil and gas, seabed minerals and renewable energy sources including wind and tidal power.
“The plan seeks to balance ecological, social and economic objectives by integrating land and sea planning for sustainable maritime development,” Uku said.
Approved by the Cabinet in March 2024, the initiative is led by the State Department for the Blue Economy and Fisheries, in collaboration with other agencies, under the Kenya Marine Fisheries and Socio-Economic Development Project supported by the World Bank.
The plan will establish a science-based framework to guide sustainable fisheries, tourism, shipping, renewable energy and maritime transport while minimising conflicts among economic sectors.
Kenya’s maritime domain extends 200 nautical miles into the Exclusive Economic Zone, granting the country sovereign rights to exploit and manage marine resources such as fisheries, oil and gas.
Uku added that environmental pressures like overfishing, pollution and climate change continue to threaten ocean ecosystems, making coordinated management critical for the future of Kenya’s blue economy.
Stakeholders believe that with proper investment, the blue economy could contribute between Sh150 billion and Sh300 billion to the GDP.
Governor Issa Timamy lauded the effort, noting that Lamu already has a county MSP aimed at maximising the ocean’s potential through tourism, fisheries and maritime trade.
“Our county MSP seeks to improve coral reefs and mangrove ecosystems through the creation of coastal and marine protection areas,” Timamy said.
“It will boost the local economy while preserving marine ecology.”
He said lessons could be drawn from Indonesia, where marine spatial planning has enhanced resource management and economic opportunities.
“Indonesia with over 17,000 islands benefited through improved management of its marine resources, reduced spatial conflicts and enhanced economic potential,” he said.
Local community representatives also welcomed the initiative.
Juma Mwabori, chairman of Mwaembe Beach Management Unit in Kwale, said the MSP would benefit fishermen, enhance community welfare and protect coastal ecosystems.
Mwabori said the marine spatial initiative would increase the potential of the country’s marine resources and drive the blue economy.
“We welcome the introduction of marine spatial planning as a crucial tool for developing the blue economy sector and sustainable ocean governance,” he said.
Instant analysis:
Kenya’s move to develop a National Marine Spatial Plan marks a major step toward unlocking the potential of the blue economy. By integrating land and sea planning, the initiative aims to balance economic growth with environmental sustainability across fisheries, tourism, renewable energy and maritime transport.
